Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

If you are a fan of rich, indulgent desserts that combine the irresistible flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake will quickly become a new favorite. It’s a luscious, moist chocolate cake layered with creamy peanut butter frosting and finished with a glossy chocolate ganache drip. Every bite offers the perfect balance of decadent sweetness and nutty goodness, making it perfect for celebrations or whenever you want to treat yourself. Trust me, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake is not just a dessert—it’s an experience you’ll want to share again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the rich cocoa powder that gives the cake its deep chocolate flavor to the luscious peanut butter that makes the frosting ultra creamy and flavorful. Together, they create layers of texture and taste that are absolutely dreamy.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb to the cake.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with moisture retention.
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cake its rich, chocolatey depth.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds extra lift and lightness to the batter.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature: Adds moisture and a slight tang for perfect cake texture.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and provide richness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic notes that deepen the flavor.
• 1 cup hot water or brewed coffee: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and thins the batter for a silky texture.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Forms the creamy base of the peanut butter frosting.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the frosting, delivering that classic Reese’s flavor.
• 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to your desired consistency.
• ¼ cup heavy cream or milk: Helps to smooth out the frosting for easy spreading.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Lifts the frosting with a hint of warmth.
• Pinch of salt (for frosting): Balances the sweetness and enhances peanut flavor.
• ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache): Melts into a glossy drip that crowns the cake beautifully.

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter

Start by combining your dry ingredients in a large bowl: the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these well ensures your cake rises evenly and has that perfect chocolate punch. In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well-blended. Slowly add the wet ingredients into your dry mix, stirring gently. Finally, incorporate the hot water or coffee—it makes the batter silky and brings out an intense chocolate flavor.

Step 2: Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers

Pour the batter evenly into two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Tap them lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely to room temperature—this step is crucial for frosting.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Add the creamy peanut butter and mix well until fully combined. Gradually add powdered sugar, starting with 3 cups, and beat until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream or milk one tablespoon at a time until it spreads easily but still holds its shape. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance sweetness and elevate the peanut butter flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting over the top. Carefully add the second cake layer and cover the entire cake with a thin crumb coat of frosting. Refrigerate the cake for 20 minutes to set. Then apply the remaining frosting evenly around the sides and top of the cake, smoothing it out beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare and Add the Chocolate Ganache Drip

Heat the semi-sweet chocolate chips gently in a microwave or double boiler until just melted, stirring to ensure it’s smooth. Let it cool slightly but not harden. Pour the ganache over the top of the cake and gently push it towards the edges for a perfect drip effect. This shiny ganache adds the final touch of decadence and really amps up the Reese’s vibe.

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake

Garnishes

For a show-stopping presentation, sprinkle chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups or roasted peanuts on top of the ganache drip. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a few mini peanut butter candies scattered around the plate will add texture and emphasize those delicious flavors. Fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, can provide a tangy contrast if you prefer a little brightness with each bite.

Side Dishes

This cake is rich enough to shine on its own, but serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream makes it even more indulgent. If you want a refreshing balance, a simple fruit salad with citrus or berries can cleanse the palate beautifully between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with a drizzle of peanut butter sauce or chocolate syrup for extra flair. For parties, cut the cake into small squares and serve as mini dessert bites on cocktail sticks. You can even layer this cake into a trifle bowl with whipped cream and chopped peanuts for a stunning layered dessert alternative that stays true to the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because this cake is so moist, it should be stored in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap at room temperature if you plan to eat it within two days. For longer storage, keep it refrigerated to maintain the frosting’s texture and the ganache’s shine.

Freezing

You can definitely freeze leftover Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or the whole cake if you prefer, and place in a freezer-safe container. This method preserves the cake’s moisture and flavor for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

To bring refrigerated or thawed slices back to their delicious best, let them come to room temperature naturally or warm gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid overheating as it could melt the frosting and ganache too much.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter in the frosting?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but it tends to be oilier and thinner, which might affect the frosting’s consistency. If you do use it, add powdered sugar gradually and be prepared to adjust with a bit more sugar or less cream to get the perfect spreadable texture.

Is there an alternative to buttermilk in the cake?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to mimic the tangy acidity buttermilk provides, which helps make the cake tender.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that is designed for one-to-one replacement. Make sure it includes xanthan gum or add a small amount to provide structure, as gluten contributes to the cake’s texture.

What if I don’t want a ganache drip?

The ganache drip is delicious but optional. You can simply frost the cake with the peanut butter frosting and finish with chopped Reese’s or a dusting of cocoa powder. The cake will still be incredibly tasty and visually appealing.

How long does the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake last?

This cake stays fresh at room temperature for about two days and up to five days refrigerated. For best flavor and texture, it’s ideal to enjoy it within this period, especially because the peanut butter frosting tastes best fresh.

Final Thoughts

Making this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake is such a joyful experience because it delivers a perfect marriage of flavors that everyone loves. It’s moist, creamy, and simply irresistible, guaranteed to brighten any occasion or cozy evening. Trust me, once you try this cake, it won’t just be a dessert— it’ll become a delicious tradition you’ll keep coming back to, eager to share with friends and family.

Print